Nothing Too Technical About Tutor's Desire To Help

CELEBRATIONS - VOLUNTEERS

January 14, 1996

Dorian McNeal says she is trying to give younger children the opportunities she did not enjoy when she was a child.

The Miramar High School 11th-grader volunteers three days a week at the Boys and Girls Clubs of Broward County's clubhouse in Carver Ranches. She tutors secondthrough fifth-graders in math, English and reading.

"It makes me feel good that I can help them with everything they need," says Dorian, 16. "I like to help the kids because I never had anyone to help me when I was younger."

When she is not helping students with homework, she is volunteering in the club's snack bar, selling cookies, candy and soda to club members. Dorian also sometimes helps the membership clerk file documents.

"My mom is very proud of me because I help a lot," says Dorian, who lives in Carver Ranches. "She just tells me to do whatever makes happy."

Dorian says the Boys and Girls Club, which is like a second home to her, teaches her leadership and survival skills.

"It really means that I have somewhere to go after school," Dorian says. "I'm not on the streets; I can do positive things."

Dorian also belongs to the Keystone Club, a youth group within the club. She says that she and other members of the group participate in community projects designed to help needy people.

Dorian thinks helping younger children is one of the best ways for other youths to get involved in their community. She hopes people will appreciate what she is doing.

"I believe in helping people," Dorian says. "If you help them, it really will get back to you in a positive way."

Dorian plans to attend a technical school after she graduates from high school. She would like to be a cosmetologist and run her own business. Working in the club's snack bar, she says, helps her gain some business skills.